04.03.2010
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The world's healthiest diets
Trainer to the stars Harley Pasternak toured the world recently to find the healthiest diets on the globe. As well as looking at obesity levels and life expectancy rates, Pasternak also looked at the national diets themselves. Herewith, his pick of the 10 healthiest diets on the planet.
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Japan
Obesity rate: 1.5 per cent
Life expectancy: 82 years
Pasternak praises the Japanese emphasis on cruciferous veggies like cabbage, broccoli, bok choy and kale. He also gives a big thumbs up to their main sources of protein - soy and fish. -
China
Obesity rate: 1.3 per cent
Life expectancy: 73 years
Two-thirds of China's meals are comprised of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. Instead of deepfrying, the Chinese opt for stirfrying meat and vegetables. -
France
Obesity rate: 6.6 per cent
Life expectancy: 81 years
The French "paradox" - that French people eat cheese and croissants but still manage to squeeze into Dior suits - is not a paradox at all. According to Pasternak, it's all about portion control. The French also eat a lot of fruit and vegetables, and use low-fat methods of cooking, like baking, roasting and braising. -
Greece
Obesity rate: 25 per cent
Life expectancy: 80 years
Despite a relatively high obesity level, Greek diets are high in unsaturated fats, wholegrains, legumes, vegetables and fish. Again, meat isn't a staple of the diet - it's only eaten occasionally. -
Israel
Obesity rate: 24 per cent
Life expectancy: 81 years
Israeli staples include legumes, olive oil and flavoursome spices and seeds that add the wow factor without loading up on fats. Turmeric, mint and sesame seeds are popular in Israeli dishes, and are packed with essential nutrients. -
Italy
Obesity rate: 13 per cent
Life expectancy: 80 years
Traditional Italian fare is rich in beans and vegetables. Pasta is popular, but it's generally eaten as a side dish. Italians also use heart-healthy olive oil in cooking. -
Spain
Obesity rate: 16 per cent
Life expectancy: 80 years
Pasternak points to Spain as a great example of high-fibre, low-fat eating habits. Spaniards cook with olive oil, and eat loads of vegetables, beans and fish. -
Singapore
Obesity rate: 1.8 per cent
Life expectancy: 82 years
Singaporeans eat meat sparingly, and stick to low-sugar treats like mango pudding when they need to indulge a sweet craving. -
South Korea
Obesity rate: 10 per cent
Life expectancy: 79 years
Pasternak recommends the South Korean approach to eating, where the emphasis is on tofu, noodles, fish and kimchi. South Koreans rarely eat meat. -
Sweden
Obesity rate: 11 per cent
Life expectancy: 81 years
Pasternak says that although the Swedes' diets are relatively low in fruit and vegetables, they're high in dairy, dark breads, berries and fish. Plus, Swedes are active in winter sports - that, luckily, can be enjoyed all year round!
Sweden
Obesity rate: 11 per cent
Life expectancy: 81 years
Pasternak says that although the Swedes' diets are relatively low in fruit and vegetables, they're high in dairy, dark breads, berries and fish. Plus, Swedes are active in winter sports - that, luckily, can be enjoyed all year round!
Obesity rate: 11 per cent
Life expectancy: 81 years
Pasternak says that although the Swedes' diets are relatively low in fruit and vegetables, they're high in dairy, dark breads, berries and fish. Plus, Swedes are active in winter sports - that, luckily, can be enjoyed all year round!
